RALEIGH — Work on a contract to replace three bridges over I-95 near Dunn in Harnett County resumes Sunday, with the closure of Jonesboro Road, weather permitting.

Jonesboro Road will be closed beginning at 9 p.m. Sunday through late March, as crews replace two spans of the bridge over I-95.

The bridge closing means there are slight detours for drivers. Westbound drivers will be directed to travel two miles north on I-95, exit onto Hodges Chapel Road (Exit 73), turn left to cross over the interstate and then get onto I-95 South back to Jonesboro Road. Eastbound drivers will turn onto I-95 South, go two miles to N.C. 55/East Cumberland Street (Exit 77), turn right to cross the interstate, and then head onto I-95 North to return to Long Branch Road.

Initially this project was intended to only repair the bridge deck and replace girders on the three bridges to improve clearance for vehicles on I-95. However, the contractor and DOT inspectors determined that all three bridges needed more extensive repairs.

Several weeks ago, preliminary work was done on the roadway approaches for the decks on both sides of I-95 for all three bridges. Damaged concrete was chipped out and replaced, then an epoxy overlay was placed down to seal the decks and prevent additional deterioration. Combined with the new decks that will now be installed, motorists will enjoy a smoother ride. And traveling on I-95 will be safer with the higher clearance for vehicles.

During each of the bridge projects, there could also be periodic night-time closures of both the north and southbound I-95 lanes while demolition and girder placement work is under way. During those closures, motorists will be detoured onto the exit ramps, and sent back onto the interstate on the other side of the bridge, but delays should be expected.

Once the new bridge opens, crews will move on to the structure on Pope Road at Exit 72.

NCDOT reminds motorists to watch signs for construction information, stay alert and obey the posted speed limit. Updated travel information is also available by calling 511 or online at www.ncdot.gov/travel. In addition, NCDOT now offers travel information on Twitter.